Incriminate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'incriminate' comes from the Latin 'incriminare', which means 'to charge with a crime'.
• It combines 'in-' meaning 'in' and 'crimen' meaning 'accusation' or 'crime', showing its roots in legal contexts.
• The term has been used in English since the late 18th century, reflecting its legal origin.

Legal Context

• In legal terms, incrimination can occur during police interrogations where a suspect might unintentionally implicate themselves.
• The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from self-incrimination, allowing them to remain silent in court.
• In criminal proceedings, incriminating evidence is key for prosecutors to build a case against a suspect.

Cultural References

• In popular crime dramas, characters often face circumstances where their words can incriminate them, adding tension and drama.
• Movies often depict misunderstandings that lead to people being wrongly incriminated, emphasizing themes of justice and truth.
• The phrase 'self-incrimination' has been featured in numerous court cases, showcasing its relevance in media and culture.

Psychology

• Research shows that people often struggle with the idea of self-incrimination, leading to anxiety when questioned about their actions.
• The concept of guilt can affect a person’s behavior, sometimes causing them to act defensively when feeling incriminated.
• People may confess to crimes they didn’t commit, a phenomenon known as false confession, often influenced by high-pressure interrogation techniques.

Positioned at #24,262, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 24262 incriminate
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